Available from Reaxense
This protein is integrated into the Receptor.AI ecosystem as a prospective target with high therapeutic potential. We performed a comprehensive characterization of Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain including:
1. LLM-powered literature research
Our custom-tailored LLM extracted and formalized all relevant information about the protein from a large set of structured and unstructured data sources and stored it in the form of a Knowledge Graph. This comprehensive analysis allowed us to gain insight into Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain therapeutic significance, existing small molecule ligands, relevant off-targets, and protein-protein interactions.
Fig. 1. Preliminary target research workflow
2. AI-Driven Conformational Ensemble Generation
Starting from the initial protein structure, we employed advanced AI algorithms to predict alternative functional states of Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain, including large-scale conformational changes along "soft" collective coordinates. Through molecular simulations with AI-enhanced sampling and trajectory clustering, we explored the broad conformational space of the protein and identified its representative structures. Utilizing diffusion-based AI models and active learning AutoML, we generated a statistically robust ensemble of equilibrium protein conformations that capture the receptor's full dynamic behavior, providing a robust foundation for accurate structure-based drug design.
Fig. 2. AI-powered molecular dynamics simulations workflow
3. Binding pockets identification and characterization
We employed the AI-based pocket prediction module to discover orthosteric, allosteric, hidden, and cryptic binding pockets on the protein’s surface. Our technique integrates the LLM-driven literature search and structure-aware ensemble-based pocket detection algorithm that utilizes previously established protein dynamics. Tentative pockets are then subject to AI scoring and ranking with simultaneous detection of false positives. In the final step, the AI model assesses the druggability of each pocket enabling a comprehensive selection of the most promising pockets for further targeting.
Fig. 3. AI-based binding pocket detection workflow
4. AI-Powered Virtual Screening
Our ecosystem is equipped to perform AI-driven virtual screening on Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain. With access to a vast chemical space and cutting-edge AI docking algorithms, we can rapidly and reliably predict the most promising, novel, diverse, potent, and safe small molecule ligands of Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain. This approach allows us to achieve an excellent hit rate and to identify compounds ready for advanced lead discovery and optimization.
Fig. 4. The screening workflow of Receptor.AI
Receptor.AI, in partnership with Reaxense, developed a next-generation technology for on-demand focused library design to enable extensive target exploration.
The focused library for Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain includes a list of the most effective modulators, each annotated with 38 ADME-Tox and 32 physicochemical and drug-likeness parameters. Furthermore, each compound is shown with its optimal docking poses, affinity scores, and activity scores, offering a detailed summary.
Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain
partner:
Reaxense
upacc:
P39060
UPID:
COIA1_HUMAN
Alternative names:
-
Alternative UPACC:
P39060; A8MVI4; Q58EX6; Q6RZ39; Q6RZ40; Q6RZ41; Q8N4S4; Q8WXI5; Q96T70; Q9UK38; Q9Y6Q7; Q9Y6Q8
Background:
Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain plays a pivotal role in retinal structure and neural tube closure. It regulates extracellular matrix-dependent cell motility and morphogenesis, involving MAPK signaling and homotrimerization. This protein also significantly inhibits endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis, affecting VEGFA-induced signaling and endothelial cell migration through integrin interactions.
Therapeutic significance:
Linked to Knobloch syndrome 1 and primary closed-angle glaucoma, Collagen alpha-1(XVIII) chain's understanding could lead to novel treatments for these conditions. Its role in inhibiting angiogenesis and modulating endothelial cell functions presents a potential therapeutic target for diseases characterized by abnormal vascular growth and eye disorders.